Q:  Keppra & Bipolar Disorder

I am currently reading Dr. Phelps book "Why am I still depressed?". I find the information truly fascinating. I notice that the drug Keppra is not referenced anywhere (book or website). I have been prescribed this (have yet to start it) and would like your thoughts.

Thanks,
Marie           


Dear Marie --
Thanks for the comment on the book. Keppra has not been shown to be of value in the treatment of bipolar disorder, either in the treatment of mania or depression -- yet.  However, the company has had quite a bit of time to demonstrate such benefit, so with no publications proclaiming such, at this point, I am beginning to conclude that we aren't going to see any such evidence.   

I looked the several clinical trial registries.  The company is supposed to include every study that they have initiated.  On the government registry, they list a study in bipolar depression that is supposed to be completed around October 2008. 

However, your doctor could have some direct experience using it, and may have seen that it has been of benefit to other patients.  I have not tried it.
 

Dr. Phelps